Day Hiking in Tursunzoda Tajikistan || Part 3

 Editor's note: This article was originally published on 20 March 2010 and was updated in August 2019 for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

This is the third post in our series. Navigate over to our previous post at Day Hiking in Tursunzoda Tajikistan Part 1 and Day Hiking in Tursunzoda Tajikistan Part 2

After leaving the village and finishing our tour of the dinosaur prints, our group took a well-deserved lunch break on a grassy saddle that overlooked the village we had departed earlier in the day. The view from this spot was breathtaking, offering a serene perspective of the landscape below. Our guides, ever-prepared, pulled out hot green tea—the national drink of Tajikistan—carefully packed in their bags for us to enjoy. It was a thoughtful touch, and the warmth of the tea was a welcome comfort against the cool mountain air.

Meanwhile, my small team had ventured to the local market the evening before the hike, stocking up on cheese and non—traditional Tajik flatbread that is ubiquitous throughout Central Asia. As we shared our simple yet satisfying spread, the combination of the tea, the non, and the cheese felt like a perfect reflection of the region’s culture—humble, yet deeply satisfying. It was a moment of true connection, not just with the land, but with the warmth and hospitality that defines Tajikistan.

Looks like the village boys' effort paid off and made a score for some lunch.

Trail Marker?

                                                        

Our group divided into two: some opted for an extended lunch break to relax and recharge, while the rest of us, eager to press on, decided to continue our ascent up the mountain.

The view from the saddle as one group ascends the mountain.

We had to watch out for falling rocks from the hikers above us.

"Just follow the donkey; he knows the way," our guide said with a smile, and it struck me how effortlessly the animal moved along the rugged terrain. It was almost as if the donkey had an innate understanding of the mountain, navigating the steep slopes and rocky paths with complete confidence. What was even more remarkable was how these animals seemed so perfectly at home here, grazing peacefully on the sparse mountain grasses. Despite the harsh, unforgiving landscape, they moved with ease, thriving where others might struggle. Watching them, I couldn’t help but marvel at their resilience and how seamlessly they adapted to this wild, untamed environment. 

 

Free-range mules. 

                                        

Overlooking the area where we will cross the river on our way back to our vehicles. 

This moment felt straight out of an Indiana Jones adventure. We came upon a monkey bridge—a narrow, precarious footbridge made of ropes and logs—spanning across the river, not far from the village we had left earlier that day. The bridge, which swayed high above the rushing waters below, is a vital lifeline for the locals who live along this stretch of the river. It’s not just a structure; it’s a daily part of their lives, used by the villagers to cross between their homes and the wider world. As I crossed it, the thrilling sense of danger mixed with awe—this simple yet daring bridge, used by so many, felt like a timeless connection between past and present, blending the ruggedness of nature with the resilience of the people who call this remote corner of the world home.

Having the chance to join this guided day hike was truly an unforgettable experience. Although our group didn’t have specialized hiking gear beyond our standard patrol packs, we made do with what we had, gathering everything we needed along the way to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day in the wild.

Tajikistan, with its raw beauty, offered everything one could hope for in an adventure. The landscape was a stunning mix of rugged terrain and picturesque countryside, where towering peaks met lush valleys, creating a breathtaking backdrop at every turn. The country not only provided a sense of wildness but also a rich cultural depth that made the journey feel even more meaningful. From the welcoming locals to the ancient traditions, Tajikistan enveloped us in its unique blend of history, nature, and authenticity—an experience that combined the thrill of the outdoors with a deeper connection to the land and its people. It was a true adventure in every sense, one that I’ll carry with me long after the hike ends.